You see here before you a good sort of man. The laws of the state I have strictly observed, Have made no acquaintance with fetters or bolts;— But it happens at times that one misses one’s footing And stumbles—— THE LEAN ONE. Ah yes; that occurs to the best of us. PEER. Now these trifles you see—— THE LEAN ONE. Only trifles? PEER. Yes; From sinning _en gros_[140] I have ever refrained. THE LEAN ONE. Oh then, my dear fellow, pray leave me in peace;— I’m not the person you seem to think me.— You look at my fingers: What see you in them? PEER. A nail-system somewhat extremely developed. THE LEAN ONE. And now? You are casting a glance at my feet? PEER. [_Pointing._] That’s a natural hoof? THE LEAN ONE. So I flatter myself. PEER. [_Raises his hat._] I’d have taken my oath you were simply a parson; And I find I’ve the honour——. Well, best is best;— When the hall door stands wide,—shun the kitchen way; When the king’s to be met with,—avoid the lackey. THE LEAN ONE. Your hand! You appear to be free from prejudice. Say on then, my friend; in what way can I serve you? Now you mustn’t ask me for wealth or power; I couldn’t supply them although I should hang for it. You can’t think how slack the whole business is;— Transactions have dwindled most pitiably. Nothing doing in souls; only now and again A stray one—— PEER. The race has improved so remarkably? THE LEAN ONE. No, just the reverse; it’s sunk shamefully low;— The majority end in a casting-ladle. PEER. Ah yes—I have heard that ladle mentioned; In fact, ’twas the cause of my coming to you. THE LEAN ONE. Speak out! PEER. If it were not too much to ask, I should like—— THE LEAN ONE. A harbour of refuge? eh? PEER. You’ve guessed my petition before I have asked. You tell me the business is going awry; So I daresay you will not be over-particular. THE LEAN ONE. But, my dear—— PEER.